Carol L. McClain 1938-2025

Carol was born Feb. 3, 1938, in Youngstown, the beloved daughter of the late George and Lucile Collins Streitferdt. A lifelong resident of the area, Carol grew up with strong family values and a deep connection to her community.

She was a proud graduate of Chaney High School, Class of 1955. After high school, she attended Mount Union College and Youngstown State University, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in education, graduating in June 1968.

Carol dedicated 25 years of her life to teaching elementary school in North Jackson Schools until her retirement in 1993. She left a lasting impact on her students, many of whom remember her as their favorite teacher.

Faith was a cornerstone of Carol’s life. Her parents were founding members of the former Mahoning Methodist Church, where Carol was deeply involved. She took great pride in organizing and running the vacation Bible school for many years, nurturing the spiritual growth of countless children. In more recent years, Carol was a member of Western Reserve United Methodist Church, where she continued to serve and connect with her faith community.

Carol was active in numerous social and civic organizations. She served as the president of the Mahoning County Women’s Republican Club and was a proud member of Eastern Star. She supported veterans’ causes alongside her husband, including the KWVA Chapter 137, which her husband helped to establish.

Carol loved connecting with others, traveling with her husband and family and was a member of numerous social clubs. She also cherished the time spent with her lifelong friends at their class breakfasts. After moving to Victoria House, she quickly became a valued member of the community, participating in the activities and making meaningful friendships.

Carol was known for her warmth and kindness. Her positive spirit and inviting personality touched everyone she met. She had a gift for making others feel valued and loved, always speaking positively of others and offering a listening ear.

Carol had a love for cooking and baking and always had fresh baked goods to offer visitors. She was best known for her strawberry shortcake and Texas sheet cake. She hosted family gatherings, creating the fondest memories in life.

Carol leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion. She will be deeply missed by her daughter, Tammy (Dale) Basista of Austintown; her son, Scott McClain of Austintown; her stepson, Dean B. (Beverly) McClain Jr., of College Station, Texas; her six grandchildren, Angela Denari, Dale L. (Kristie) Basista, Seth Basista, Lindsay McClain Opiyo, Kyle (Brittany) McClain and Deann Holster; and her seven great-grandchildren, Ava, Riana, Scarlet, Evan, Genn, Stormi and AJ. She also leaves her brother, George (Elaine) Streitferdt of Boardman; and her cousins, Karen Himes and Nancy Beekman, who were always close family companions. Carol’s life was further enriched by many lifelong friends and extended family members who were blessed to know her.

Her husband of 58 years, soul mate and love of her life, Dean B. McClain, whom she married Nov. 30, 1956, passed away Dec. 28, 2014.

Family and friends may call from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at Kinnick Funeral Home 477 N. Meridian Road, Youngstown, where a funeral service will take place at 1 p.m.

Interment will follow in Lake Park Cemetery, where Carol will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband.

Carol’s life was a testament to the power of faith, family, and friendship. Her gentle spirit, kind heart, and unwavering love will continue to inspire and guide those she leaves behind.

The family would like to thank the staff and residents of Victoria House for their kindness and friendship given to Carol every day. It meant the world.

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